5 Best Pubs with Playgrounds in the Gold Coast Hinterland

Introduction to Gold Coast Hinterland Kid-Friendly Pubs

Finding a pub that ticks all the boxes for both kids and adults is not always as easy as it sounds, especially in the beautiful but sometimes sleepy Hinterland. Some places talk a good game, but do not deliver when push comes to shove.

It is not all doom and gloom, though! The five pubs that made our shortlist all have playgrounds, good food, and that laid-back country charm that makes a weekend drive feel worth the effort. Whether you are meeting up with the mum group or heading out for a family Sunday roast, great food, cold drinks, and plenty of space for the kids to run around safely while you relax are always the order of the day.

So, let us take a trip inland — these are our top picks for family-friendly pubs in the Hinterland.

Hinterland Hotel Family Bistro – Nerang

Hinterland Hotel Family Bistro Playground

Hinterland Family Bistro
53 Station St, Nerang, QLD

Atmosphere: Easy-going family place with those classic Aussie pub vibes we all know and love.

If you are looking for a no-fuss family lunch where the kids are sorted and you do not need to push the boat out, then look no further! Hinterland Hotel Family Bistro has an old-school feel, a big bistro, and a spacious outdoor area. More to the point, the fenced playground is located bang in view of the dining space.

Although there is plenty of both indoor and outdoor seating, most families with kids head straight for the undercover tables outside. All the better for keeping one eye on your steak and one eye on the slide. The playground is basic but solid, there is a climbing frame, slide, and plenty of room to burn off some steam.

The menu is classic pub-style. Burgers, parmas, and steaks are where it is at, and mains sit around the $20–$30 mark. Kids’ meals are around $12, with a drink and ice cream included alongside the usual suspects.

It is not fancy, but it is reliable, and you can’t say fairer than that!

Extra tips: The playground is best for toddlers and younger primary-aged kids. There’s loads of free parking, and you don’t usually need to book unless it’s a big group.

Features:

Playground: Yes – outdoor, fenced
Kids’ menu: Yes
Highchairs: Yes
Change table: Yes
Shade: Yes
Parking: Free, on-site
Booking needed: No
Pet friendly: Outdoor area only

Wallaby Hotel – Mudgeeraba

Wallaby Hotel
43 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba, QLD

Atmosphere: Trendy pub meets local favourite

The Wallaby Hotel in Mudgeeraba is one of those places that has managed to pull off a sympathetic refurbishment to bring it up to date while still retaining its charm. The updated interiors, relaxed beer garden, and well-thought-out kids’ zone all contribute to the great vibe.

Not only is the playground quite elaborate, but it is also fully fenced and right next to the outdoor seating. All the better for sitting back with something chilled while the kids do their best lost boys impressions. It’s best for under-10s, with a cool cubby-house-style structure, slide, and soft fall for safe landings.

Food-wise, it features classics but with a lean toward more modern Aussie pub fare. Think sharing platters, woodfired pizzas, burgers, and big salads. The price range for mains is from $22–$35, and the kids’ menu ($12–$14) has all the staples — nuggets, pasta, burgers — all served with chips, a drink, and ice cream.

The Wallaby also runs popular live music and family days occasionally, so keep an eye on their socials to ensure you don’t miss out.

Extra tips: This place gets busy on weekends! We’d recommend booking ahead, especially if you want to nab a good outdoor spot.

Features:

Playground: Yes – fenced outdoor with soft fall
Kids’ menu: Yes
Highchairs: Yes
Change table: Yes
Shade: Yes
Parking: Free, on-site
Booking needed: Recommended weekends
Pet friendly: Yes (outdoor areas)

Tallai Golf Club -Tallai

Tallai Country Golf Club
Corner of Worongary Road & The Panorama, Tallai

Atmosphere: Quiet and peaceful with lush, green views

Although this spot is not technically a pub, Tallai Golf Club has a relaxed bistro that’s perfect for families looking for something a little more low-key and is entirely pub-like. Set in the green hills of the Hinterland, this is a great choice if you’re hoping for something with a scenic setting and a bit of space to breathe, far from the madding crowd.

There is a small playground on site to keep little ones busy long enough to enjoy your meal overlooking the greens. There are also outdoor tables near the playground for easy supervision.

The menu is affordable and casual, with burgers, fish and chips, pasta, and daily specials. Mains are very reasonably priced ($18–$28), and the kids’ meals are around $10, including a drink and dessert.

It’s a bit of a hidden gem and is less crowded, with a genuine local vibe.

Extra tips: Bring other suitable entertainment for older kids are older as the playground suits younger kids best.

Features:

Playground: Yes – small outdoor
Kids’ menu: Yes
Highchairs: Yes
Change table: No
Shade: Yes
Parking: Free, on-site
Booking needed: No
Pet friendly: No

Beechmont Hotel – Advancetown

Beechmont Hotel
402 Nerang-Murwillumbah Road, Advancetown

Atmosphere: Country charm with epic views and plenty of history

The Beechmont Hotel is a Hinterland must-visit. Where to begin? Boasting sweeping mountain views and a wonderful big deck, this might actually be one of those unicorns we’re always looking for! Somewhere, the adults can sip a cold one while gazing restfully across the hills, all while the kids are happily playing and entertaining themselves.

The playground here is a new addition and it is a good one. Situated right near the deck, you can relax without worry. It’s got a cubby house, as well as climbing equipment and a sandpit. To put any other concerns to rest, the whole area is fenced and shaded.

Food is classic pub fare with a few elevated touches — think local produce, hearty mains ($22–$38), and a good range of options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians. The kids’ meals ($12) come with a drink and dessert.

With regular community events, the hotel also hosts live music, Sunday roasts, and seasonal festivals.

Extra tips: This is a great day trip spot — make sure to pack a jumper even in warmer months; it can get cool up there!

Features:

Playground: Yes – new, fenced, shaded
Kids’ menu: Yes
Highchairs: Yes
Change table: Yes
Shade: Yes
Parking: Free, on-site
Booking needed: Recommended for weekends
Pet friendly: Yes – outdoor deck

Bearded Dragon Hotel – Tamborine

Bearded Dragon Hotel
2–22 Tamborine Mountain Road, Tamborine

Atmosphere: Rustic, country pub with a fun twist

If you’re after a pub with a bit of personality, the Bearded Dragon in Tamborine is the one for you! It’s quirky, full of character, and is super family-friendly, especially on weekends.

There is a spacious playground, with climbing frames, swings, and plenty of open grassy areas for running riot. That’s not all, though…. There’s also an animal enclosure and even occasional reptile shows, which are a massive hit with curious kids.

The pub itself is large and sprawling. There is plenty of outdoor seating close to the action, and mains range from $20–$35. The kids’ menu ($12) is pretty standard, but it is generous, and you can grab a coffee or wine while the little ones explore to their hearts’ content.

The Bearded Dragon also runs markets, car shows, and family fun days throughout the year, so check out their website to see what they’ve got lined off when you’re planning your visit.

Extra tips: Bring a hat and sunscreen — the playground is sunny and wide open.

Features:

Playground: Yes – large, outdoor, open grass
Kids’ menu: Yes
Highchairs: Yes
Change table: Yes
Shade: Partial
Parking: Free, on-site
Booking needed: Yes, on weekends
Pet friendly: Yes – outdoors

Final Thoughts

Whether you are chasing a lazy Sunday lunch or just a quick midweek meal to fill a hole where the kids can burn some energy, these Hinterland spots make family outings a breeze. From scenic to laid-back or energy-packed, these have kid-friendly features and show that you do not have to choose between a decent pub meal and happy little ones.

Save this list, share it with your mum group, and make your next outing one where everyone leaves smiling (and ideally, tired).